New Delhi: World Population Day, observed year on July 11, was established to raise awareness about the significant global population growth issues and their impact on development and sustainability. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiated the day in 1989 after the world reached the five-billion population mark on July 11, 1987. It was officially observed for the first time on July 11, 1990, in over 90 countries after the United Nations General Assembly declared World Population Day in December 1990. Every year, there is a different theme on which the day is observed, and this year, it is “To Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone”.
World Population Day 2024: What is the theme for this year?
The theme for this year is “To Leave No One Behind, Count Everyone”. According to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the theme reminds us that “investing in data collection is important to understanding problems, tailoring solutions, and driving progress. So is finance. I urge countries to make the most of the Summit of the Future this year to unleash affordable capital for sustainable development.”
What does the theme signify?
According to the United Nations (UN), over the past 30 years, the world has witnessed remarkable strides in collecting, analysing, and utilising population data worldwide. These new figures accurately portray our diverse societies, now segmented by age, ethnicity, gender, and other crucial factors.
These advancements, largely propelled by technology, have significantly enhanced global healthcare delivery, particularly in sexual and reproductive health, and the ability to exercise rights and choices. Technological progress has enabled more detailed and timely measurement of people’s experiences and is crucial for better representing marginalised communities in our data systems.
Data is urgently needed to represent marginalised communities better. Their lack of representation significantly impacts their well-being, underscoring the need for our collective empathy and support.
World Population Day is not just a date on the calendar but also a crucial opportunity to reflect on who still needs to be counted and why. Leaving anyone behind is not an option. It’s a chance to understand the costs for individuals, societies, and global efforts. Most importantly, it is a call to action for all to commit to ensuring that our data systems capture the full spectrum of human diversity. This is how one can ensure everyone is seen, exercise their human rights, and reach their full potential.
The UN says that one must count those on the edges of our societies to realise their rights and choices because everyone counts. Our rich human diversity is only as strong as its weakest link. When data and other systems work for those on the margins, they work for everyone, and this is how one can accelerate progress for all.
What is the purpose of World Population Day?
The day aims to draw attention to the urgency and importance of various population issues and highlight the need for global collaboration to address these issues for a sustainable future. Common population-related concerns include gender inequality, poverty, education, and healthcare. Family planning and health-related initiatives are recommended for a sustainable future.
The United Nations (UN) annually observes World Population Day on July 11. The day addresses issues such as poverty, resource scarcity, and environmental stress brought on by population growth. However, it also highlights the advantages of a larger population, such as innovation and a more diversified labour force. In this article, let us explore this year’s theme and its meaning. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
